Hopedale residents honor war veterans

Beginning at the Hopedale Jr./Sr. High School at 8:30 a.m., the parade wound through town lead by the high school's marching band, ending in the town cemetery.

"Over the last six years, all Americans have been faced with a severe test," said parade marshal Judge Francis Larkin, addressing the crowd gathered in the cemetery. "Whatever our personal opinions are on our country's decision to go to war, we have shown what kind of a nation we are."

"In days of darkness we have shown calm and compassion for one another," he said.

Among those marching in the parade were the color guard from the Hopedale Police and Fire departments, the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and local war veterans.

"This is one of the nicest ceremonies in the area," said Hopedale resident Jackie Wheelock, who joined the crowd of local residents coming out to appreciate war veterans every year. "Memorial Day is one of my favorite holidays because of its meaning."

"The high school band did a great job," said Wheelock, pointing out the band performed without the help of the senior class, which already is out of school. "They all step up a little when they have to," she said.

"I like the community spirit," said Michele Alves, who has joined other Hopedale residents in watching the parade since moving into town in 1994.

"It's nice to see everybody in town. It's a good turnout," said Alves, whose 7-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son marched in the parade with the Brownies and Webelo Scouts.

At the ceremony, Hopedale Sr./Jr. High School student Ashley McGuane sang "The Star-Spangled Banner."

Then Larkin read the names of all of the Hopedale residents who lost their lives in each of our country's wars.

"Despite differences over policy ... America will be united behind one thing - behind the brave men and women around the world making a sacrifice for (their country)," said Larkin.

Larkin said one of the most satisfying aspects of the Memorial Day parade is the participation of young people, referring to the Scouts who marched in the parade. "We know they will carry on the tradition," he said.

Among members of younger generation involved in the Memorial Day tradition this year were high school student Jeffry Bliss, who read the "Gettysburg Address," fourth-grade student Zack Oliva, who presented a poem that he wrote entitled "What Memorial Day Means to Me," and sixth-grader Demiah Schleff who sang "God Bless America" near the end of the ceremony.

"I couldn't ask for a better community," said Vietnam War veteran Cornel Matthew Masnick in addressing the crowd.

Before ending the ceremony, Larkin encouraged those present to salute any war veterans they may come across. "Tell them you are in awe of their commitment, or simply say them, thank you," he said.

"(The ceremony) was very touching. It was beautiful," said Kathy Espanet of Hopedale, who brought her 8- and 10-year-old children. "It is important for everyone to come."